The alternative community have been rocking out in Bolton this weekend, all in aid of The Sophie Lancaster Foundation.
Kilfest, a Bolton based heavy rock and metal festival, started as a small birthday event in 2025, it was such a success that it has grown rapidly. Denise Frain, festival organiser, told Roch Valley Radio “We were so overwhelmed by demand for bands wanting to perform in 2026 that we put on a 3 day festival this year”
There are 20 bands on the schedule for Kilfest 2026, Sunday evening is the final day of the festival with acts such as Ozzy Osbourne Tribute, Graffiti Club and Onion Mash taking to the stage. Denise told Roch Valley Radio “All bands have given their time for free so that all the proceeds can go to charity” This has allowed Denise, and husband Phil, to support the work of The Sophie Lancaster Foundation who are the chosen charity of Kilfest.
The Sophie Lancaster Foundation was created by Sylvia Lancaster following the senseless murder of her daughter. Sophie was attacked in a park in Bacup in August 2007, simply for being different. Sylvia established the foundation to help tackle hate crime.
In honour of the festival, Phil built a special lighting rig, initially designed for Motorhead, which is now a key feature of the festival. “The bands just love performing with the lighting rig,” Denise told Roch Valley Radio.
Another key part of the festival is the Kilmister Truck, a handmade 1/9th scale Volvo Truck Motorhead themed & 'Little Lemmy' driving. Phil pulled the truck, along with support from friends and family, from Bolton to Blackpool in 2021. It has since been appearing at many festivals including Bloodstock and of course Kilfest.
The final night of the festival takes place this evening at The Ramp, Weaver Corner, Hampson St, Horwich, BL6 7JH. Doors open at 5.30pm, the first band is on stage at 6pm. Tickets are £12 and are available for purchase on the door. Denise told Roch Valley Radio “It would be lovely to see as many people there as possible for the final night tonight”
Denise has already started to plan Kilfest 2027 with bands already coming forwards to take part. You can keep up to date on Kilfest by following Kilfest Festival on Instagram.
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